Background and History of ISMA^UK

Founded in 1974 as the American Association for the Advancement of Tension Control (AAATC), the Association was renamed as the International Stress and Tension Control Society (ISTCS) in 1981 due to international interest. In 1984, the UK and French branches were formed and the organisation was renamed International Stress Management Association (ISMA) in 1989. With branches in 8 countries and members in many other countries, ISMA^UK has a global reach.

Since its establishment over 30 years ago, ISMA^UK's purpose is to:

• Raise the profile of stress-related issues, both in the home and workplace
• Combat the stigma often associated with personal stress
• Change attitudes towards the management of stress in the world of work

ISMA^UK is the leading professional body for workplace and personal stress management, wellbeing and performance.  As a registered charity, ISMA^UK exists to promote sound knowledge and best practice in stress management, both nationally and internationally.

Through our register of professional practitioners and consultants, we offer support in the form of work with individuals, also providing coaching and training courses within the workplace, be that the public or private sector, commerce and industry.